Reindeer summer activity pattern in relation to weather and insect harassment

1. During the brief growing season in Arctic and high mountain ecosystems, undisturbed grazing is crucial in order to maximize growth and fattening. During summer 1997 we investigated the influence of weather and insect harassment on the behaviour and group dynamics of reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L.). 2. Climatic data, activity of parasitic flies, and female reindeer behaviour were recorded from two wild reindeer populations in Southern Norway. Temperature and solar irradiation were good predictors of oestrid fly activity. Throughout the warm summer, reindeer were exposed to vigorous oestrid fly harassment, which caused dramatic decrease in feeding and lying, and increase in walking, running and standing. This behavioural change may compromise the physical condition of individuals entering winter. 3. Mosquitoes had little influence on reindeer activity patterns. In the absence of oestrid flies, weather parameters had no influence on reindeer activity pattern. Even during the warmest days, no signs of heat stress were recorded. Accordingly, snow patches, marshes and windy mountaintops were used primarily to avoid oestrid fly harassment. Thus, most disruptions of feeding that are often reported on warm days are responses to oestrids, not thermal stress.